Where should I put my composter ?

When deciding where to place the bin, there are a few guidelines to remember :

Place the bin on grass or earth:
This allows worms to enter the bin from underneath – worms help to keep air circulating through the material, and plenty of air is needed to speed up the composting process, and to avoid odours. Also, as the material decomposes, moisture seeps out and you’ll need to allow this liquid to soak into your grass or earth. The bins with bases have holes to allow for worm entry, and should be raised slightly off the ground, 1 – 2 cm. This can be achieved by placing a few flat stones under the base . The bins with bases are raised slightly to prevent the holes becoming blocked, which would prevent worm and oxygen entry.

Distance from the house:
Place the bin not too far from your kitchen door, so it is easily accessed, but far enough to allow bacteria, fungi, worms and beetles to work in peace.

Place the bin in a sunny spot:
The dark colour of the bin will absorb the sunrays, without risk of drying out the material in the bin .

Protect it from heavy rain – Heavy rain may waterlog the bin, which will starve the bin of air and prevent composting .Once you’ve chosen your location, loosen the soil in order to help drainage and make it easier for the worms and bacteria to pass into the bin from the surrounding earth. Put the bin in place ( on its base if supplied )It is best to start a compost bin in the spring, summer or autumn, as the decomposition process slows or stops in winter.